Chapter 36

Blair wasn't wearing any makeup. The closer Alexander looked, the more flawless and delicate her skin appeared. Bathed in warm light, it gleamed like polished ivory. As she worked on his tie, her fingertips unintentionally brushed against his neck. Blair froze, instinctively glancing up—only to be caught off guard by Alexander's deep, shadowed gaze. Her almond-shaped eyes widened in alarm, and she yanked her hand back. But Alexander was quicker. He grasped her wrist firmly and pulled her closer. The tie now hung loosely around his neck, still half undone. Alexander slipped it off with his free hand and tossed it aside. "You're not drunk!" Noticing the precision in his movements and the clarity in his eyes, Blair realized the truth at once. She began to struggle, trying to pull away. In the scuffle, her collar loosened just enough to reveal her fair neck. Bathed in gentle light, its graceful curve was perfectly accentuated. Alexander's Adam's apple bobbed slightly. He cupped her